When you apply for any of the disability programs explained below, we will collect medical and other information from you to decide if you meet Social Security's definition of disability.
Social Security Benefits
You may qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits if you:
- are a disabled worker and you have worked and earned enough credits to become "insured."
- are a disabled widow or widower between 50 and 60 years of age and your deceased spouse earned enough credits to become "insured."
- became disabled before age 22, and either of your parents is deceased or disabled, and earned enough credits to become "insured."
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payments
You may qualify for SSI payments if you are disabled and meet our financial requirements.
Medicare
You may qualify for Medicare coverage if:
- you have been entitled to Social Security disability benefits for 24 months; or
- you are a government employee who meets Social Security's definition of disability; or
- you have kidney problems requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
More Information
For more information on any of these programs:
- See Social Security's Disability Programs web site.
- Call our toll-free number,
1-800-772-1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our toll-free "TTY" number,1-800-325-0778. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 7 PM.